Portage, Indiana: Where Fun and Adventure Collide – The Best Places to Visit and Things to Do!
Portage sits on Lake Michigan between a steel mill and a national park, which is the fact that explains everything else. Indiana Dunes National Park runs over 15,000 acres of dunes, wetlands, prairie and forest, and Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk is the town’s own piece of it. The beaches work through the summer. The Iron Horse Heritage Trail runs all year. Chicago is an hour west.
Are you planning a trip to Portage, Indiana? Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s no shortage of fun things to do and places to visit in this charming city. From outdoor adventures to historical sites, Portage has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best and most fun things to do in Portage, Indiana.
Outdoor people get the most out of Portage. Hiking and biking through to fishing and picnicking, the list runs long. For something more relaxed, take a leisurely stroll along the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk or sit in the sun at Ogden Dunes Beach. And for something more adventurous, the natural wonders of Indiana Dunes National Park.
Food lovers do well in Portage too. Classic American fare through to international cuisine, and the dining options run deeper than the size of the city suggests. And for shopping, the local shops and boutiques are the interesting part. Souvenirs or something for yourself, both are here.
Key Takeaways
- Portage, Indiana offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to fishing and picnicking.
- Foodies will love the diverse dining options in Portage, including classic American fare and international cuisine.
- Portage is home to many unique shopping spots, from local shops and boutiques to larger retailers.
Outdoor Adventures in Portage
Portage is strong ground for anyone who likes being outdoors, and the list of options is long. These are the best outdoor adventures in Portage, Indiana.
Indiana Dunes National Park
If you love sand dunes, Indiana Dunes National Park is the place. This park covers more than 15,000 acres of dunes, wetlands, prairies and forests. You can hike, bike, birdwatch, swim and picnic in it. It is where you see what Indiana actually looks like.
Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk
Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk is the popular spot for fishing, swimming and hiking. The boardwalk takes a leisurely stroll and there are benches enough to sit and watch the water. The beach is clean and well-maintained, and the water is clear. It is a good place to spend a day with family.
Imagination Glen Park
Imagination Glen Park is the all-rounder for outdoor time. Hike, bike, use the playground, or eat a picnic. There are wetlands and prairies to explore in it as well.
Iron Horse Heritage Trail
If you love hiking and biking, the Iron Horse Heritage Trail is the one. This trail is 17 miles long and runs through the heart of Portage. You get the scenery of Indiana and the exercise in the same trip.
Tolleston Dunes Trail
Tolleston Dunes Trail is where you hike into the sand dunes properly. There is birdwatching too, with a good range of animals in their own habitat. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow.
West Beach
West Beach is where you spend a whole day. Swim, sunbathe, and play in the sand. The beach is clean and well-maintained and the amenities are all there. It is the place to sit and look at Lake Michigan.
Ogden Dunes Beach
Ogden Dunes Beach is the other one, for swimming, sunbathing and picnicking. It is clean and well-maintained with amenities on site. And it is quieter, which makes it work with family.
Hiking, biking, fishing, or simply being outdoors, Portage covers all four. So pack the bags, grab the sunscreen, and go and have an adventure in Indiana.
Food and Drink in Portage
On food and drink, Portage has you covered. Juicy steaks through to award-winning wings, whatever the craving is. These are the best places to eat in Portage.
Portage’s Best Pizza Places
Pizza is the ultimate comfort food, and Portage has some of the best pizza places in Indiana. If you’re looking for a classic slice, head to Lucrezia Cafe. Their thin-crust pizza is crispy and delicious, and they have a variety of toppings to choose from. If you’re in the mood for something more unique, try Pesto’s Pizza. Their pesto sauce is out of this world, and they have some creative toppings like goat cheese and roasted red peppers.
Award-Winning Wings Joints
If you’re a fan of wings, you won’t be disappointed in Portage. Buffalo Wild Wings is a classic spot for wings, but if you want something a bit more unique, check out Wingstop. Their wings are crispy and flavorful, and they have a variety of sauces to choose from. For award-winning wings, head to The Wing Experience. Their wings are so good, they’ve won multiple awards, and they have a variety of flavors to choose from.
Vintage Muscle Car Themed Restaurants
If you’re a car enthusiast, you’ll love the automotive-themed restaurant scene in Portage. Schoop’s Hamburgers is a classic spot for burgers and fries, and they have a vintage muscle car theme. Portage House of Pancakes is another great spot for breakfast, and they have a classic car show every Tuesday during the summer. For a more upscale experience, check out Bullpen Luxury Bar & Grill. Their menu features steak and seafood, and the restaurant is decorated with vintage sports memorabilia.
Pizza, wings or a juicy steak, Portage covers all three. So grab your friends and head out for a meal.
Shopping Spots in Portage
Looking for a shopping spree in Portage? You are in luck. This city runs malls, boutiques and art galleries. These are the best places to shop in Portage:
Portage Mall
Portage Mall is the go-to shopping destination for locals and visitors alike. It runs stores across the board, clothing and accessories through to electronics and home goods, JCPenney and Bath & Body Works and Victoria’s Secret among them. And there is a food court for a quick bite.
Downtown Boutiques
For boutique shopping, head to downtown Portage. There are small shops selling everything from clothing to home decor. The Pink Sheep Boutique and Mainstream Boutique are the popular ones, and they carry things you will not find in the mall.
Art Galleries
For art, Portage has several galleries worth checking. The Art Barn is the popular one, with rotating exhibits of local and regional artists. The South Shore Arts Gallery is the other, showing a mix of contemporary and traditional work.
Whatever kind of shopping you want, Portage covers it. So put on the walking shoes and go.
Family Fun in Portage
Looking for family activities in Portage? These are the options that keep the whole family entertained.
Camelot Bowling Centers Inc
Get the bowling shoes on and head to Camelot Bowling Centers Inc. They run recreational bowling alongside leagues and tournaments for the competitive end. With 48 lanes, nobody waits long. And they have D-Box motion seats, which is not something most bowling alleys bother with.
Goodrich Quality Theaters Portage 16 IMAX
Looking for a movie theater a cut above the rest? The Goodrich Quality Theaters Portage 16 IMAX. With 16 screens there is always something on. And the D-Box motion seats put you inside the film whether you wanted that or not.
Arcade Games Venues
For arcade games, Portage has several venues. Zao Island does mini-golf, go-karts and arcade games in one place. And the Funflatables Family Fun Center runs inflatable play structures alongside the arcade.
Whatever the family is into, Portage has plenty of options for a day out.
Natural Wonders in Portage
Portage holds some of the best natural ground in Indiana. Orchards through to wetlands through to sandy beaches. These are the natural wonders not to miss.
County Line Orchard
For a day of apple picking, County Line Orchard is the answer. This u-pick orchard is where a fall day goes with family and friends. Pick your own apples, take the hayride, and eat the apple cider donuts. And take home some homemade apple butter or caramel apples.
Northwest Indiana Wetlands
The Northwest Indiana Wetlands are the stop for any nature lover. With over 8,000 acres of wetlands, the area holds plants and wildlife across the board. You can explore on foot or by boat. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, great blue herons and other birds.
Sandy Beach Areas
Portage holds several beautiful sandy beaches along Lake Michigan. Sunbathing, swimming or building sandcastles, all three work here. The top ones include Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk, Ogden Dunes Beach and the Indiana Dunes State Park.
So grab the sunscreen and go and look at the natural side of Portage. Picking apples, birdwatching or sitting on a beach, it makes a good day in this Indiana town.
Go for the dunes. Everything else here is a supporting act, including the food, the shopping and the arcades. Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk is the easy access point, with a boardwalk and a beach and a parking lot that does not fill the way the state park’s does. West Beach and Tolleston Dunes are the ones to walk. The rest of the town is where you sleep and eat.
Events and Festivals in Portage
Portage is not only natural beauty. It runs a real events and festivals calendar as well. Food lover, music lover, or someone simply after a good time, all three are covered. These are the annual events to check out:
- Portage Brewfest: If you are a beer enthusiast, then you cannot miss the Portage Brewfest. This annual event features over 100 craft beers from local and national breweries. You can also enjoy live music, food trucks, and games while sipping on your favorite brew.
- Portage Summer Music Series: The Portage Summer Music Series is a free concert series that takes place every Thursday evening during the summer months. You can enjoy live music from local and regional artists while lounging on your picnic blanket or lawn chair. Don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes!
- Portage Community Market: The Portage Community Market is a weekly farmers market that takes place every Sunday from June to October. You can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food from local vendors. It’s a great place to stock up on groceries and support local businesses.
- Portage 4th of July Celebration: The Portage 4th of July Celebration is a day-long event that features a parade, live music, food vendors, and a fireworks display. It’s a great way to celebrate Independence Day with your family and friends.
- Portage Fall Festival: The Portage Fall Festival is a two-day event that takes place in September. You can enjoy live music, a car show, a craft fair, and a beer garden. It’s a great way to welcome the fall season and have some fun.
Those are a few of the many events and festivals in Portage through the year. Check the Portage Parks and Recreation website for the full list.
Historical Sites in Portage
History buffs will get a lot out of the historical sites in Portage. Museums through to historic buildings, there is plenty to see.
Portage Historical Museum
The Portage Historical Museum is the stop for anyone interested in the history of the area. It sits in a historic building with exhibits on the early settlers of Portage and on the town’s growth since.
The most interesting exhibit is the display on the town’s famous “Portage Potato”, a giant spud grown in the area in the early 1900s. There are also exhibits on the town’s railroad history and its part in the steel industry.
Specialty Museums
Beyond the Portage Historical Museum there are several other specialty museums worth checking. The most unusual is the South Shore Model Railroad Museum, with a serious collection of model trains and railroad memorabilia.
For military history, visit the Portage WWII History Museum. This small museum preserves the memory of the men and women who served in World War II, with exhibits on the war’s impact on the local community.
Whatever the interest, Portage’s historical sites will hold it. So grab the camera and a sense of adventure, and step back in time.
Nearby Cities to Explore
For more beyond Portage, there are several nearby cities worth exploring. These are our favorites:
Michigan City
Just a 20-minute drive from Portage, Michigan City is a charming lakeside town with plenty in it. Check out the historic lighthouse, hit the beach, or try your luck at the Blue Chip Casino. And if you are hungry, the famous Michigan City hot dogs are worth the trip on their own.
Hammond
Located just west of Portage, Hammond is a busy city with a long history. Visit the Indiana Welcome Center for the background, or head to Wolf Lake for outdoor time. And craft beer drinkers should stop at Byway Brewing Company.
Valparaiso
A short drive south of Portage, Valparaiso is a college town with genuine character. Check out the shops and restaurants downtown, or catch a show at the Memorial Opera House. And for the outdoors, the Taltree Arboretum and Gardens.
Gary
Gary may not have the best reputation, and it is worth a visit for history buffs. The city was a major hub for the steel industry once, and the remnants of that era are still standing. Check out the Gary Aquatorium for the local history, or head to Marquette Park for fresh air.
Whichever nearby city you pick, it will be a good day. And for something more adventurous, take a day trip to Chicago. The Windy City is a short drive or train ride away, and there is always something on.
Accommodation Options in Portage
So where do you sleep after a day of working through Portage, Indiana? Do not worry, dear traveler, because Portage runs accommodation for every budget and preference.
For a bit of luxury, there are several hotels in Portage that will do. The Hilton Garden Inn is the popular choice, with spacious rooms and a lovely indoor pool. The Country Inn & Suites is the other one, and it holds up well.
For those on a budget, there are plenty of affordable options in Portage as well. The Super 8 by Wyndham is the pick for a clean, comfortable room at a low price. And the Motel 6 works if you are traveling with a dog.
For something more unusual, consider the Songbird Prairie Bed & Breakfast. This charming place runs cozy rooms and a homemade breakfast every morning. Or, for a genuinely one-of-a-kind stay, book a site at the Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
Wherever you choose to stay in Portage, it will work. Everything in this charming Indiana town is close to everything else.
Wellness and Relaxation in Portage
Looking to slow down in Portage? You are in luck. This charming town has more options for wellness and relaxation than you would expect.
First up, why not try a yoga class? Yoga is a great way to stretch and strengthen your body while also calming your mind. Check out Yoga Room for a variety of classes suitable for all levels.
If yoga isn’t your thing, perhaps a massage is more up your alley. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage at Massage Envy and let all your stress melt away.
For those looking to get creative and express themselves, why not try a painting class? Painting with a Twist offers fun and relaxed painting classes for all skill levels. Plus, you get to take home your very own masterpiece!
And of course, don’t forget to take a stroll along the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk. This scenic walkway offers stunning views of the lake and is the perfect place to clear your mind and enjoy nature.
Yoga, a massage, painting, or simply a quiet walk, Portage covers all four. So go ahead and take the self-care seriously for a day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top attractions in Portage, Indiana?
You cannot go wrong with the Indiana Dunes National Park. It is a beautiful place to work through and it shows you the natural side of the area properly. For something lower-key, the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk. It is a good spot for a stroll with the scenery doing the rest.
Where can I find the best pizza in Portage, Indiana?
The age-old question. Ask ten different people and you will get ten different answers. But here is the secret: you cannot go wrong with Tomato Bar. They run all kinds of pies and they do not disappoint.
What are some unique activities to do in Portage, Indiana?
For something outside the box, try the Portage IMAX. It is the place to catch the latest blockbuster with sound and visuals that justify the ticket. Or, for something more adventurous, Sky Zone Trampoline Park.
What are the best places to stay in Portage, Indiana?
There are plenty of good options, but we are partial to the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson. It is cozy and comfortable with the amenities you need, and the staff are genuinely helpful.
What makes Portage, Indiana stand out from other cities in Indiana?
For starters, Portage holds some of the best natural scenery in the state. The Indiana Dunes National Park through to the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk, and the views run long. And the people are friendly, the food is good, and the atmosphere is laid-back.
Are there any famous landmarks in Portage, Indiana?
You betcha. One of the most famous is the Gary Aquatorium, a building that was once a bathhouse and now serves as a museum and event space. And there is the Indiana Dunes National Park, which is the reason most people come at all.
Frequently asked questions about Portage, Indiana
Which Portage beach should you go to first?
Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk, because the town built it and the parking is its own. It has a boardwalk out over the water and a clean stretch of sand, and it is the closest thing here to a front porch on Lake Michigan. West Beach is the National Park’s version, bigger and busier. Ogden Dunes Beach is the quiet one.
How long is the Iron Horse Heritage Trail?
It runs 17 miles and it goes straight through the heart of Portage, which is unusual for a town this size. The route follows an old rail line, which is where the name comes from and why it stays flat the whole way. Bikes suit it better than boots. It reaches the lakefront at the north end.
What is actually in the Portage Historical Museum?
The early settlers of Portage, and then the town’s growth after them. There is a display on the “Portage Potato”, a giant spud grown here in the early 1900s, which is the exhibit everybody remembers. The railroad history and the steel industry take up the rest of it. It is a small building and it does not take long.
